Our client is one of the fastest growing and award winning FMCG (food) companies with an international footprint. Their culture is fast moving and progressive and they are on a journey to build a ‘best in class’ group procurement function.

They have a requirement for a European Buyer to join the Packaging procurement team and work across all their well-recognised food brands across the UK and Europe. Working in the centralised Procurement team, you will own the flexible packaging spend (c€20m) which includes plastics, flow wrap and printed bags.

Working at a strategic and operational level, you will identify and deliver sourcing projects and category management to meet the business needs as well as promoting Procurement across the organisation as a ‘best in class’ function. This is a great time to join the company because they are growing rapidly through acquisition and there are multiple exciting projects to be delivered. This includes working closely with the R&D team on sustainable options for plastic packaging as well as sourcing new materials and different printing techniques.

Responsibilities:
• Work closely with senior management to build challenging and achievable cost reduction targets
• Identify savings opportunities, supported by analysis and stakeholder engagement
• Project manage all strategic sourcing initiatives across all flexible packaging spend areas
• Manage cross functional teams including key internal stakeholders and suppliers
• Working effectively with suppliers to ensure a high level of service and quality and that suppliers are treated fairly

Skills and experience required:
• An ambitious procurement professional with detailed knowledge of procurement principles (sourcing, tendering, contract and supplier management) gained in the FMCG sector, although Pharmaceutical, Packaging and Retail sectors will be considered
• Packaging category experience is preferred, although other Direct spend areas will be considered including ingredients, co-pack or contract manufacturing
• Solid commercial capability and negotiation skills
• Multi-cultural empathy and preferably pan-European experience
• Highly organised with project/programme management skills and the ability to drive, manage and deliver change
• Strong influencing skills with the ability to build consensus with stakeholders
• Naturally inquisitive and able to drive forward innovation and build best practice
• Graduate calibre